
In today’s world, oftentimes Christian business leadership and our faith feels like a point of difference that isn’t seen as a strength for our business. In fact, people may tell us we will never get anywhere by living like a saint.
But for those of us who truly trust in the Lord, our faith is a treasure trove of strength that can help us navigate smooth sailing on rough seas.
There are many blessings we gain from choosing to walk with Christ. Some of these blessings include: a desire for honesty, humility, integrity and perseverance. The Holy Spirit dwells in us and plants these desires in us, and they truly are strengths that promote Christ in our lives.
As Christian business leaders, we have the opportunity to be viewed in a different light as we go through our work days.
The Christian Leadership Strengths You Gain from Walking in Faith
Strength 1: Being honest– Speaking the truth is not always convenient or easy, but it is always best. Proverbs 12:22 tells us that “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.”
Being open and real with clients grows trust in our relationships. And when people trust us, they are more likely to be repeat customers. Honesty also cuts down on surprises… when we are open and truthful, everyone knows what they can and should expect from us.
Strength 2: Showing humility– God says in Isaiah 57:15, “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.” He also says in James 4:6, “But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
God prizes this quality above many others because I think it is often so rare, especially in a business setting. Humility causes us to be teachable, gives us the ability to listen and learn from different points of view and it can even help turn criticism into a growth experience.
Strength 3: Leading with integrity– Luke 16:10 tell us, “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.”
Doing what is right–whether it’s going the extra mile, giving a refund when something isn’t right, or taking an ethical stance–is a breath of fresh air in today’s business world.
Integrity builds confidence with both customers and employees. As a business leader, people are watching what you do. Acting with integrity is a great way to lead by example for your employees. This does not go unnoticed.
Strength 4: Persevering – Hebrews 12:1 tells us, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…”
“When the going gets tough…” We’ve all heard that saying before. But as a person of faith, we are trained to persevere in our endeavors. When obstacles and challenges arise in our business, we are taught to continue on, steadfastly, with purpose and conviction. We know how hard it can be to walk by faith, so this preparation is invaluable in our work life.
Exercising our faith muscle strengthens us for hard work in both our personal and business lives. If we spend our strength in God’s ways, we will find that it can increase and multiply, bearing fruit for His Kingdom.
Even if you do not have a faith-based business, your Christian business leadership is definitely not a weakness. Your beliefs and values will be displayed in the way that you lead your business; this will be evident and appreciated by your employees and clients.
God blessed with you with your business. He cares about your business. And, when you place your trust in Him alone, you will see that when God is on your side, no one can stand against you.
Though hardships may come your way, He is right by your side… which is the greatest blessing and strength you could ever hope for.
Great read! As we look at how we run our businesses, we may be criticized, but our customers and clients know how consistent and reliable we are.
Thank you for the inspiring message. I sometimes forget that my market place business is a ministry. “Christian business”.